Featured is a partial list of our celebrity speakers who address topics on substance abuse. Please contact us at 503-345-9164 so that we can provide you with a customized list of our top choices.

Meredith Baxter(Topics: Substance Abuse, Domestic Violence, Cancer), One of TV's favorite mothers, Meredith appeared on the popular show, "Family Ties". While performing critically acclaimed comedic and dramatic roles in TV and over 50 movies, Meredith Baxter also battled alcoholism, breast cancer, domestic abuse, and other challenges while raising five children.
Now a cancer survivor, successful entrepreneur, and recovering alcoholic for 20 years, she also released her memoir, "Untied". From fame to floundering and back, she offers an inspiring story of courage, hope, self-acceptance and happiness. Her upbeat, winning style that earned her the admiration of fans is now a part of her presentation to audiences across the country.

Mollie Birney(Topic: Addiction) From the ages of 14 to 22, Mollie Birney battled a vicious eating disorder. Growing up in Los Angeles, she was affected by the constant barrage of messages and learned the tricks of purging, compulsive exercising and the language of calories. Her celebrity mother, who starred in the hit TV show, "Family Ties," constantly struggled with food and weight issues and later with alcoholism, and Mollie's own eating disorder spun out of control. She sunk into depression before seeking treatment for her addiction. Now eight years in recovery, Mollie is a counselor in the addiction recovery field and speaks throughout America to schools and treatment center groups.

Susan Ford Bales (Topics: Family Substance Abuse; Cancer, Heart Disease) Presidential daughter and advocate for awareness of substance abuse, breast cancer and her own experience with heart disease. .The daughter of former President Gerald Ford and Betty Ford, Susan Ford Bales' adolescence was spent in the White House during one of the most turbulent times in American history. In addition to speaking about living in the White House, Bales also addresses the impact of substance abuse on her family. She is also one of the nation's most visible advocates for breast cancer awareness, and shares her own story of experiencing cardiac arrest in 2010.

Kim Hume(Topic: Substance Abuse) Emmy Award Winner, Kim Hume, was founding Washington Bureau Chief for Fox News Channel and wife of Fox News' Brit Hume, tells her harrowing tale of addiction, redemption and success during a life on the front lines of national television news, covering key political stories of the last 3 decades. She forged an unlikely success while struggling with life threatening addiction in her teens and twenties and then survived sobriety through triumph and tragedy. Fueled by her growing faith, Hume finds herself, at last, living a happy, normal and peaceful life."

John Larroquette(Topic: Substance Abuse), In 1973, Larroquette decided that acting was what he should be doing. Smalll movie parts gave way to his breakthrough in 1983 with the role of philandering but harmless prosecutor Dan Fielding on the hit sitcom "Night Court," a part that earned him four consecutive Emmy Awards.
Larroquette took enough time off from the series to appear in a string of movies, and in 1993 he got his own series, "The John Larroquette Show." It allowed him to play a recovering alcoholic, a role that wasn't much of a stretch. Since then John has appeared on "Boston Legal", hosted the A&E show, "The incurable Collector" and in 2016 will return for his 3rd season of "The Librarians" on TNT.

Christopher Kennedy Lawford(Topic: Substance Abuse, Mental Health,) As the first born child of famous Rat Pack actor Peter Lawford and Patricia Kennedy, Lawford grew up with presidents and movie stars as close relatives and personal friends. Lawford offers a poignantly honest portrayal of his life as a Kennedy, the lessons learned from the legacy of coming from wealth, and a heartbreaking account of his near fatal addictions to alcohol and narcotics and ultimately, the redemption he found by asserting his own independence. He also addresses the "quiet crisis" of substance abuse affecting the aging population, and the latest research on addiction & co-dependency.

Daniel Rodriguez( Topic: Substance Abuse, Inspiration, Overcoming Obstacles) Best known to the American public as "the voice that healed a nation" - the 9/11 Singing Policeman, and America's Beloved Tenor. Rodriguez has survived two major life dramas - that fateful September morning while on his shift for the NYPD and his earlier triumph over the full-blown alcoholism and narcotic use that nearly destroyed his life. Daniel tells his compelling story with humor, wit and yes, some stirring music that inspired the nation post 9/11. He went on to receive the "Best Performance by a Leading Male" by OperaOnine and appeared on shows such as "The Late Show with David Letterman," "Larry King Live," "Live with Regis and Kelly," "The Tonight Show" and "Oprah."

Kevin Shird(Topics: Substance Abuse; Mental Health) Author of Lessons of Redemption, Kevin tells his incredible story of the gritty truth of inner-city neighborhoods, living with substance abusing parents, his entanglement in drug trafficking, his 12 years in jail and how he re-established himself as a loving father, citizen and strong advocate for helping to ensure better lives for others. He is a testament to how one can literally walk through fire and emerge on the other side.

Augusten Burroughs(Topics: Addiction, Mental Health) Augusten Burroughs' memoir, "Running with Scissors" about his bizarre, shattered childhood, was a publishing phenomenon, with three years on the NY Times best-selling list. It later became the successful movie, starring Alec Baldwin. His subsequent books, including "Dry" about his battle with addiction, was also an instant success. He is a popular guest on TV talk shows, and his writings have appeared in top publications and newspapers around the world. He has been twice voted to Entertainment Weekly's "Funniest People in America."

Ellen Burstyn(Topics: Substance Abuse; Family Depression, Domestic Violence) With an illustrious career encompassing stage, film, and television, Ellen Burstyn won the Tony Award as "Best Actress" for her starring role in "Same Time, Next Year," but it was her Academy Award-winning performance in "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" for which Burstyn is best known. Lecturing throughout the country on a wide range of topics, Burstyn is especially committed to women's health issues and domestic violence awareness. She also shares her personal story of overcoming substance abuse and dealing with a family member who suffered from depression.

Cris Carter(Substance Abuse) One of the most illustrious pass catchers in NFL history, former Minnesota Vikings star receiver Cris Carter is now a weekly commentator on HBO's "Inside the NFL." Overcoming substance abuse, addiction, and family problems, Carter established a foundation for underprivileged children, as well as the Viking Super Challenge, which challenges students to stay in school and away from drugs. But Carter believes his most significant contributions continue to be made off the field, through public speaking about drug awareness.

Laurie Dhue (Topic: Substance Abuse) Veteran broadcast journalist and host of the investigative program "For the Record" on TheBlaze TV. - For more than 15 years, anchor Laurie Dhue lived a double life, struggling with acute alcoholism while holding down several high profile broadcasting jobs for Fox News Channel, CNN and MSNBC. Her addiction nearly killed her-- until one day she decided to save her life. She has been clean and sober for more than six years and shares her experience, strength and hope to help shed light on a disease that affects tens of millions of Americans. By overcoming her greatest fear, living without alcohol, Laurie is a testament to the power of determination, willingness, honesty and love. Happy, joyous and free, Laurie is living a life beyond her wildest dreams, thanks to her journey of recovery. Her courageous story will inspire you!

Linda Ellerbee(Topics: Substance Abuse; Cancer) Enlightening and entertaining audiences for more than 25 years, Linda Ellerbee is best known as the former anchor of the late-night news program "NBC News Overnight" who is now producer of the highly-acclaimed "Nick News" on Nickelodian. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, Ellerbee underwent a double mastectomy and chemotherapy, and has since been telling her story of living with breast cancer. Using her trademark wit and wisdom, she describes the often amusing yet always heartfelt reactions of her friends, family and colleagues when they heard of her diagnosis. Her personal story of battling the disease is a source of inspiration and strength to many.

David Feherty(Topics: Addiction, Depression, Mental Health Advocate) Feherty's sharp wit and colorful personality have made him golf's favorite TV announcer. A former professional golfer on the European and PGA Tours, he is now with NBC Sports and premiered his own primetime talk show on The Golf Channel in 2011. A mental health advocate, Feherty is open about his struggle with addiction and depression saying, "Far too many people are owned by addiction and devastated by depression. There's such a stigma attached to mental illness that they're afraid to get help".

Carrie Fisher(Topics: Substance Abuse; Bipolar Disorder) The daughter of show-biz couple Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher, Carrie Fisher became an international cultural icon for her role as Princess Leia in the box office trilogy of "Star Wars," "The Empire Strikes Back," and "Return of the Jedi." An accomplished writer, she became a sensation with her bestselling novel, Postcards from the Edge, a semi-autobiographical novel about an actress dealing with both drug rehabilitation and an alcoholic, attention-hungry mother. Fisher speaks openly and compellingly about her personal battles with manic depression and overcoming substance abuse.

Steve Ford(Substance Abuse; Cancer; Domestic Abuse) The son of former President Gerald Ford and Betty Ford, Steve Ford has had a successful 20 year career as an actor in Hollywood. Offering an insider's view of life in the public eye, he shares how his family dealt with Betty Ford's bouts with alcoholism and breast cancer, as well as his own successful battle overcoming alcoholism. His program is described as a cross between The History Channel and The Book of Virtues, Ford continually focuses on the importance of character, integrity and right choices. His one-of-a-kind presentation inspires people to be open to change and transformation and addresses aspects of the person as a whole, including both career and family roles.

Larry GatlinA Grand Legend in country music, Larry Gatlin's career has spanned four decades, produced hit records, sold-­out concerts, and countless awards. Larry's talent has brought him many rewards including international fame, a Grammy, a truckload of #1 songs, a starring role on Broadway and two films. Larry Gatlin entertains his audiences with humorous anecdotes about his encounters with countless celebrity friends and shares the insight he gained from his personal triumph over addiction.

Marion Grodin(Topics: Substance Abuse, Cancer) As the daughter of Charles Grodin and one of the decade's hottest comics, Marion Grodin has shared the stage with Robin Williams, Robert Klein, Jerry Seinfeld and has appeared on numerous TV shows, including "The View", MSNBC and CBS Radio, where she hosted a show for two years. But life had its highs and lows. At an early age, Marion was part of the drug scene and by 14 she was getting high every day and by college was completely addicted to alcohol and narcotics. This sent her on a downward spiral into profound mental illness. Add to her life a diagnosis of breast cancer. She believes that her "community" of friends, family and support groups were her lifeline. In her memoir, "Standing Up", she shares her life stories and how she now loves using humor even more to help others.

Darrell Hammond(Topics: Child Abuse, Substance Abuse) Darrell Hammond is known for his "right-on" impersonations during his 14 years on SNL, including Bill Clinton, Dick Cheney and Chris Matthews. Although he made millions of people laugh, off camera he was taking drugs and alcohol, a result of being abused as a child by his mother. Diagnosed with PTSD, he found the courage to get help and is now an advocate for sobriety.

Mark Lundholm(Topics: Addiction, Suicide, Mental Health) Clean and sober since 1988, comedian Mark Lundholm is a former criminal, mental patient, homeless wino and halfway house resident. After very humble beginnings, he has taken his successful standup comedy career through all 50 United States and 10 foreign countries. Hailed as a "younger George Carlin", he has spoken to recovery audiences, healthcare providers (with CEU credits), veterans and communities wanting to raise money for mental health programs.

Dennis MarcellinoDennis Marcellino, a celebrity musician, author and inspirational speaker, is a past member of Sly & the Family Stone (the #1 band in the world in 1970 and voted as one of the top 10 bands of all time by MSNBC), The Elvin Bishop Group and The Tokens, famous for "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." As an entertainer, he abused alcohol and drugs for 18 years (29 years ago) and not only lived to tell about it (unlike a number of his other colleagues), but he's also developed a very successful program that leads to a permanent end to abuse and addictions. His fun, entertaining and engaging keynotes - including musical numbers - and his musical shows receive top reviews with corporate, college and non-profit audiences.

Maureen McCormick(Topic: Substance Abuse, Mental Health/Depression)After the run of the TV show, "The Brady Bunch", Maureen McCormick's life was nothing like Marcia's storybook existence. In fact, it was a nightmare. The actress had developed an "all-encompassing" addiction to cocaine at the age of 20, and began a downward spiral that threatened to wreck her career. After the movie, "The Brady Brides", her lowest point, she began on her road to recovery and overcoming clinical depression. She has been sober for 30 years. She tells her personal story of dealing with mental health issues in her autobiography, "Here's The Story: Surviving Marcia Brady and Finding My True Voice.".

Pat O'Brien(Topic: Substance Abuse) Pat O'Brien, CBS sportscaster, TV co-host of "Access Hollywood" and "The Insider", was a skinny South Dakota kid with long hair, a rock and roll band, divorced parents and an alcoholic father. Pat's life took turns that were both spectacular and destructive: from the Huntley-Brinkley Report and afternoons at Bobby Kennedy's living room with Muhammad Ali to conversations with six Presidents. He did acid with Timothy Leary, drank with Mickey Mantle, and over the course of a remarkable career up close and personal with the Beatles, The Stones, The Kennedy's, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods and virtually every star in Hollywood. He is a frequent contributor on CNN, MSNBC and the TODAY show.

Ben VereenA Legend of the stage and screen, Ben Vereen is best known for his iconic role as Chicken George in the ground breaking television miniseries, Roots. A Tony Award winner for his renowned performance in Bob Fosse's Pippin, Ben has gone on to solidify his place among Broadway royalty, with starring roles in such Broadway productions as Wicked,Chicago,Jesus Christ Superstar,Hair,Jelly's Last Jam, and I'm not Rappaport. He is currently touring his one man show, An Evening with Ben Vereen,throughout the US and Europe.

Paul Williams (Topic: Substance Abuse) A gifted lyricist and composer, singer, and actor, Paul Williams has written some of the most cherished songs of our time, including "We've Only Just Begun", "Rainy Days and Mondays" and "Evergreen". Sharing his own story of recovery and addiction, Williams talks to audiences across the country about the devastating effects of drugs and alcohol and the rising use of drugs by the young. He is a licensed drug rehabilitation counselor, a field he is interested in, and passionate about.

Barbra Streisand is the latest celebrity to raise awareness of women and heart disease. It is the nation’s number 1 killer and has not gotten the attention that many other diseases, such as cancer have, she says. The fact is … Continue reading →

How many times have we seen and heard about celebrities suffering from addiction to drugs or alcohol and then relapsing after spending time in rehab – too many, I’m afraid. In his memoir just out, “I’ll Be Right Back After … Continue reading →

Robin William’s death by suicide is just another sign that we need to address mental illness. Luckily more celebrities are stepping up and speaking out about mental health, including Meredith Baxter on substance abuse, LaDonna Gatlin on attempted suicide, John … Continue reading →

In his latest NY Times Best seller, The Doctor’s Diet, Dr. Travis Stork remarks on how little we appreciate the work our heart does for each of us. Every day it pumps about 100,000 times. Try squeezing your hand 100,000 … Continue reading →

We are excited to announce Dr. Travis Stork’s newest book, The Doctor’s Diet – Restore Health & Lose Weight to be released on January 1, 2014.* Unhealthy eating is an epidemic and it very well may kill you! Finally, a … Continue reading →

Dr. Travis Stork, ER Doc and co-host of the Emmy-award winning show, THE DOCTORS shared life saving lessons with Prevention Magazine this month. On his first night as an attending physician, moonlighting in the ER of a rural southern hospital, … Continue reading →

It’s another Saturday night in the E.R. The PA system barks a warning, announcing an auto accident with multiple injuries. I hear the sirens and know this is the “golden hour,” the critical 60 minutes that determine whether they will … Continue reading →

Author Jane Heller, who has written 13 comic novels, has taken on the subject of caregiving, which she knows well. As caregiver to her husband, Michael, who suffers from Crohn’s disease, she has been able to find the humor in … Continue reading →